I wasn't planning to write another science-related post, but I discovered a free resource you are going to want to start using ASAP. Have you heard of Mystery Doug? I probably wouldn't have known who he was except that I'm using Mystery Science as my main science curriculum for this school year. (Shout out to my teacher-buddy Carol for hooking me … [Read more...]

The light at the end of the tunnel? Yeah, that's the last day of school...wow. I'm finishing my 21st year of teaching. I have very clear memories of my first day on the job, and the proverbial saying "time flies" certainly applies to me. I get asked occasionally about my future and when I might retire, but that's still too far down the road for me. … [Read more...]

Static electricity was the focus of this week's science lessons in Room 411. One of the few good things about winter (aside from an occasional snow day) is the ability to create a lot of static electricity. We put this ability to good use in my room with our annual Roller Can Races.
I Overcome My Fear
This science experiment is one of my all-time … [Read more...]

With so much emphasis on reading and math, content areas and writing often seem to get the leftovers at the end of an instructional day. While students certainly need to be able to read, I think there are ways resourceful teachers can successfully teach content and craft.
Interesting Context
For many students, the knowledge and processes taught … [Read more...]